When it comes to cooking salmon, there’s no denying that a perfectly pan-seared piece can be nothing short of magical. The outside crispy and golden, while the inside remains tender and flaky – it’s a culinary delight that’s hard to beat. And yet, so many people struggle with achieving this perfect balance of texture and flavor. But fear not, dear cooks! We’re here to help you master the art of pan-searing salmon with our collection of 20 mouthwatering recipes.
From classic lemon butter sauce to bold maple glaze, spicy Cajun seasoning to tangy teriyaki marinade, we’ve got a recipe for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these crispy salmon dishes are sure to impress your family and friends. So why wait? Dive in and discover the secrets to creating the perfect pan-seared salmon dish.
Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful pan-seared salmon fillet smothered in a bright and tangy lemon butter sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add the butter to the preheated pan and let it melt.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin).
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the fish is cooked halfway through.
7. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until fully cooked.
8. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
9. Add the lemon juice to the pan and stir to combine with the remaining butter and garlic.
10. Serve the salmon with the lemon butter sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets.
Garlic Herb Butter Salmon in a Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. Pan-seared salmon fillets are smothered in a rich garlic herb butter, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, and dill until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side up (if they have skin).
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the edges are cooked through.
5. Flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Serve the salmon with a pat of garlic herb butter spooned over the top, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Glazed Pan-Fried Salmon
This recipe yields a flavorful and moist salmon dish with a sticky maple glaze that complements the delicate fish perfectly. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, and brown sugar until well combined.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl to coat.
5. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin).
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until browned, then flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Brush the maple glaze over the salmon during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Spicy Cajun Pan-Seared Salmon
Spicy Cajun Pan-Seared Salmon Recipe
This Spicy Cajun Pan-Seared Salmon recipe combines the bold flavors of the Bayou with the delicate texture of fresh salmon, making for a mouthwatering main course. A quick and easy dish to prepare, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Add olive oil to the preheated skillet and sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Salmon in a Pan
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this sweet and savory honey soy glazed salmon recipe. Ready in under 20 minutes, this pan-seared salmon dish is perfect for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and brown sugar until well combined.
3. Add the salmon fillets to the pan, skin side up (if applicable). Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the skin is crispy.
4. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Brush the honey-soy glaze over the salmon during the last minute of cooking.
6. Garnish with minced garlic and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Salmon with Dill and Capers
Elevate your salmon game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, featuring the brightness of fresh dill and the tanginess of capers.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated skillet and swirl it around.
4. Sear the salmon fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the salmon from the skillet and place it on a plate.
6. Top each fillet with chopped dill and capers.
7. Serve immediately, with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon Skillet Recipe
This recipe is a quick and flavorful way to prepare salmon with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, all in one pan! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the salmon fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, and honey to the skillet, stirring to combine.
6. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet and spoon some of the teriyaki sauce over each piece.
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Fried Salmon with Avocado Salsa
Pan-Fried Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe
Looking for a flavorful and healthy dinner option? This pan-fried salmon with avocado salsa recipe is the perfect choice! With its crispy exterior and tender interior, paired with a creamy and refreshing avocado salsa, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and garlic in a bowl.
5. Serve the pan-fried salmon with the avocado salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Pepper Pan-Seared Salmon
A bright and citrusy twist on classic pan-seared salmon, this recipe combines the rich flavors of lemon zest with a hint of warm pepper to create a dish that’s both elegant and effortless.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, zested
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl to coat.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin).
5. Sear for 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until the edges start to flake.
6. Flip the salmon over and sear for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with lemon zest.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Crusted Salmon in a Skillet
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Pesto Crusted Salmon recipe. This skillet-cooked delight is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet and brush the top of each with the pesto mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil around the salmon to prevent sticking.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side or until browned.
6. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pan-Seared Salmon with Mango Salsa
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this simple yet impressive recipe. Pan-seared salmon paired with a fresh mango salsa makes for a delightful dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Stir in lime juice.
6. Serve pan-seared salmon with mango salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon in a Pan
This pan-seared salmon recipe is a sweet and savory twist on traditional grilled fish. A simple brown sugar glaze adds depth and caramelized flavor to the crispy-skinned salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
5. Brush the brown sugar glaze evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Pan-Fried Salmon
A flavorful and crispy pan-fried salmon recipe with a rich garlic parmesan twist.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the preheated pan. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin).
5. Sprinkle the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Pan-Seared Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce
A rich and tangy sauce elevates this simple yet elegant salmon dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
5. Remove salmon from skillet and place on a baking sheet. Spoon Creamy Dijon Sauce over each fillet.
6. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until sauce is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Salmon Skillet Recipe
Savor the bold flavors of this one-pan wonder, where crispy blackened salmon meets sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with blackening seasoning; add to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Sprinkle paprika over the top of the salmon; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Pan-Fried Salmon with Spinach and Tomatoes
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet elegant recipe, featuring pan-fried salmon, wilted spinach, and juicy tomatoes. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and sear salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, wilt spinach by heating it in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds or cooking it in the same pan as the salmon for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes to the pan with the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve salmon topped with wilted spinach and fresh parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes.
Balsamic Glazed Pan-Seared Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of balsamic glaze with the flaky texture of pan-seared salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Add the glaze to the preheated skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Seared Salmon with Coconut Curry Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of salmon with the warmth of coconut curry sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a pinch of curry powder.
3. Heat coconut oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and cook until caramelized (5-7 minutes). Add garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in coconut milk, curry powder, and cumin. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve salmon with coconut curry sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Salmon: 8-10 minutes; Curry Sauce: 5-7 minutes
Simple Skillet Salmon with Herbs
This recipe yields a flavorful and moist salmon dish with a delicate herb crust, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple cooking steps, you’ll be enjoying this delightful meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet and swirl it around.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side up (if they have skin).
5. Sprinkle chopped herbs, garlic, and lemon zest evenly over each fillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the fish is seared.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Mushrooms
This dish combines the flaky goodness of salmon with the earthy flavor of garlic butter mushrooms, all wrapped up in a crispy pan-fry. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan and swirl to coat. Place salmon in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Add minced garlic to the mushrooms and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve salmon with garlic butter mushrooms spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of pan-searing salmon to perfection with these 20 crispy and delicious recipes. From classic combinations like lemon butter sauce and garlic herb butter, to sweet and savory options like maple glaze and honey soy glaze, there’s something for every taste bud. Spicy Cajun and blackened flavors add a kick, while creamy dijon and coconut curry sauces provide rich and indulgent alternatives. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these pan-seared salmon recipes are sure to impress.
